Our Vicar, John Libby is Geordie born and bred. His background is in banking where he ended up looking after the global risk management of the money market operation (just ask!), living in Cambridge and California. He also led a CPAS Venture Team and out of that Team grew the Kepplewray Trust; John chairs the trustees of that charity with its focus on Inclusion and Disability. Having served his title at St Andrew’s, Enfield, John joined the staff team at Emmanuel, Northwood before coming to St James in 1996. John is married to Daphne and they have 3 teenagers(ish) – 1 boy and 2 others. He supports Newcastle (United and Falcons), now mainly from his armchair.
Wendy Downey is our Parish Assistant. She is a local lass having lived in Denton Holme all her life and has been part of the church family since she was three. Before joining the staff team in September 2007 her background was also in banking. From her early teens she’s enjoyed teaching and leading within Sunday School, Guiding and Boys Brigade and currently provides a friendly helping hand and listening ear within the Women’s Fellowship, Homegroups and Bereavement Support Group. To relax she enjoys playing badminton and swimming and during the cricket season you’ll find her cheering on her local team, the Durham Dynamos, where she is a member.
Kate Davidson is the children and family worker. Born and bred in Denton Holme, she has been involved in the Children’s work at St James for a few years before being given the opportunity to join the staff team in 2007 (mainly Wednesday’s and Thursday’s). Her main focus is with pre-school children and their families. She enjoys art and crafts (the messier the better) and watching most sports. She is a keen supporter of Man United (some of us do feel sorry for her) and Carlisle United (even more sorry depending on how they are doing this season!)
Joan White has been our verger for over 25 years. She is often found welcoming people on a Sunday morning, and occasionally in the church or the centre during the week. Joan also runs a Vestry Hour for those wishing to discuss baptisms and weddings, on a Monday evening. Joan is married to Reg and they have 3 sons and 4 grandchildren.
Mary Hetherington is our Administrator. She is also Carlisle born and bred, and has worshipped at St James since she was about 14. Over the years Mary has been involved with Sunday School, Mums & Toddlers, Music Group and, more recently, PCC. Mary joined the staff team as full-time Administrator in September 2007. She is married to Colin and has 2 children (who aren’t really children any more!) Mary enjoys pottering about in gardens.
